A Review of Trans-Dimensional Kirigami: From Compliant Mechanism to Multifunctional Robot

Kirigami, or “jianzhi” in Chinese, is an art in paper-cutting. Using simple tools like scissors, artisans transform paper into intricate designs featuring flowers, animals, or characters (e.g., “囍”). Nowadays, kirigami has emerged as a particularly promising design strategy in engineering. This method involves creating systematic cut patterns on thin, planar sheets, which enables complex mechanical responses by changing dimensions, thereby offering innovative solutions for the development of metamaterials, soft actuators, and robotic systems. The concept of the integration of ancient art and modern science and technology has injected vitality into the development of many disciplines and become the forefront of interdisciplinary research. This review provides a systematic review of recent progress on the design of kirigami and applications in diverse robotic prototypes. The kirigami begins by classifying into two categories from a compliant mechanism perspective, and then it examines the distinctive mechanical properties that altered by cut patterns, followed by reviewing the design of the two types of kirigami. Next, the kirigami-inspired kinematic metamaterials is examined. Finally, applications in soft actuators and robotic systems is demonstrated. The integration of design methods, fabrication techniques, materials research, mechanics modeling, and control systems will further advance this emerging field.